Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign in Morocco goes beyond the quest for continental glory, as financial implications once again form a major part of the narrative surrounding the Super Eagles.
With the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) still grappling with unpaid player bonuses, staff allowances, and broader administrative challenges, success at the tournament could provide timely relief off the pitch.
While prize money alone does not win matches, a strong performance in Morocco could significantly ease financial pressure and restore some stability within Nigerian football administration.
CAF prize pool and Nigeria’s guaranteed earnings
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that the total prize pool for AFCON 2025 remains at $32 million, the same figure introduced at the last edition of the tournament.
Nigeria have already secured $350,000 from their qualification campaign after finishing top of their group, a reward that reflects their consistency during the qualifiers.
In addition to that amount, the Super Eagles are guaranteed further earnings simply by featuring at the tournament proper, ensuring that a baseline level of revenue is locked in before a ball is kicked in Morocco.
These guaranteed figures provide some financial certainty for the NFF, regardless of how Nigeria’s group stage matches eventually unfold.
How prize money escalates with progress
As the tournament advances, the financial rewards increase sharply, placing even greater importance on progressing beyond the group stage.
Teams that qualify for the round of 16 will earn $800,000, a significant jump from the initial participation earnings.
Reaching the quarter-finals boosts that figure to $1.3 million, while a place in the semi-finals comes with a payout of $2.5 million.
That semi-final reward alone surpasses the annual international football budget of some African football federations, underlining the growing financial stakes of the competition.
What winning AFCON would mean financially
The largest rewards are reserved for the final stages of the tournament. The runners-up at AFCON 2025 will receive $4 million, while the eventual champions will pocket a massive $7 million.
Should Nigeria go all the way and lift the trophy, the Super Eagles are projected to earn a combined total of about $11.6 million from qualification, participation, and performance-related rewards.
That sum is estimated at approximately ₦17.4 billion and could have a transformative impact on Nigerian football if properly managed.
Beyond rewarding players and coaching staff, such income could help the NFF settle long-standing debts, fund grassroots development, and improve preparations for future international competitions.
AFCON 2025 is scheduled to run from December 21 to January 18, with the Super Eagles aiming to secure a historic fourth continental title while also maximizing the financial benefits that come with success in Morocco.